orange chicken

After our babies were born, meals were one of the most needed, and appreciated gifts we received. Having multiple infants at home meant providing around the clock care, which left very little time for our own self care. Simple things like a hot shower or warm cup of coffee became luxuries and having a nice meal together was a rarity. When someone delivered a meal, we were oh-so gracious. After our gifted meals were depleted, I was faced with the challenge of putting a decent meal on the table. Out of necessity, I learned how to cook more than queso in a slow cooker. With a lot of trial and error, I rounded up a handful of our own family’s favorite slow cooker meals, which I typically prep as freezer meals.

To pay it forward, freezer meals are now our go-to gift for families welcoming new babies. Rather than sending a cooked meal, I add all the raw ingredients into a gallon Ziploc bag and freeze it. Then, when the family is ready to use the meal, they can add it to their slow cooker. To make a complete meal, I also send a whole grain and steam in bag vegetables. Everything is packaged in a plastic bag with a label, directions, and use by date (three months after prep). Before prepping freezer meals as gifts, I always check with the family dietary restrictions and preferences. If you’re looking for some tasty, easy to prep meals for yourself or to gift to others, give our favas a whirl! The last batch of meals I prepped took me 90 minutes and I ended up with 10 meals (half for our family and half to share).

Chicken Taco Bowls

2-3 chicken breasts

1 can Rotel (mild if your family is sensitive to spice)

1 t. minced jar garlic

15 oz. can black beans, rinsed & drained

2 cups frozen corn

1 Tbsp chili powder

½ Tbsp cumin

½ tsp dried oregano

1/2 t black pepper.

Cook on low 4-6 hours, or high 2-3 hours. Shred chicken with a fork. Serve over long grain rice and garnish with shredded cheddar, sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), and salsa. Or, make tacos instead!

**This recipe is good for families on dairy free (without garnish) and gluten free diets.

We are currently in a season of welcoming new babies, but freezer meals also make excellent gifts for families grieving a loss, following a hospitalization or surgery, etc.. A homemade meal is a wonderful gesture to warm a friend’s heart.

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